5 ways to Survive the friends’ trip
Say goodbye to the cursed Miami trip; here’s how to come back from vacation with friends in one piece.
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Everyone’s tryna be outside this summer, and what better way to do that than with friends? Trying and seeing new things with the closest people you know is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But friendship excursions aren’t always just jumping off waterfalls and going to foreign nightclubs. Traveling can be an intense experience and as with any friend group, there may be drama and disagreements. But if you’re well prepared you and your friends can come back from your trip still speaking to each other. Here are 5 travel tips to make sure your next friendcation doesn’t end up in shambles.
Discuss payment arrangements early
One of the most common reasons people return from vacation no longer friends is because of money conflicts. It’s important to be open and honest with your friends about how much you all want to spend on the trip. Make sure everyone is on the same page about handling dinner, transportation, and any other unanticipated expenses. You guys may want to consider creating a travel fund to cover shared expenses to avoid conflicts later.
Plan accordingly
As a group, decide on things you want to do on the trip. Everyone should have a voice in planning. Consider everyone's preferences to incorporate activities that cater to diverse interests. Figure out if splitting up is okay if people don’t want to participate in certain activities. Your itinerary should have a balance of group activities and alone time to give people time to recharge (this is also a great way to make sure you’re not all driving each other crazy).
Learn how to compromise
Traveling with a group means compromising at times. Keep an open mind and be flexible about the schedule and activities. Be willing to make compromises and allow everyone to have a say in the decision-making process. This will help create a peaceful and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Communicate
If something bothers you speak up! Even the best of friends can experience conflicts during a trip. If an issue arises, address it calmly and be open to listening to any concerns. Communication and listening are essential to resolving conflicts, so encourage everyone to express their concerns and find solutions together. Remember, it's better to address and resolve conflicts promptly rather than allow them to fester.
Choose wisely
Make sure everyone in the group is comfortable with each other. Remember, you’re going to be living with these people for a few days, so choose a group of people you feel aligned with. For example, if you’re an early riser, you probably shouldn’t room with someone who likes to sleep in. And if there’s any unresolved tension within the group, fix it before you travel. Considering the chemistry of the group early on will save a lot of unwanted conflicts.
Traveling with friends can be an extraordinary experience that strengthens bonds and creates lifelong memories. By following these five essential tips you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Remember, the key to a successful journey with friends lies in open communication, compromise, and mutual respect. So gone ‘head and pack those bags, because you and your friends and ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
